4 Ways To Stop Saying Filler Words Such As “Um” And “Uh”

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All too often you heard of people muttering “like”, “so”, “um” and other filler words during their speeches, be they amateurs or professionals! It is perfectly fine to use these innocuous-seeming filler words once or twice while you are giving a speech or doing a presentation. In fact, it makes you sound wise as you are thinking before you speak.

However, the problem arises when you use them repeatedly which can kill your credibility. Worst of all, people will even think that you have a lackadaisical attitude for being unprepared in your presentation.  

Nonetheless, all hope is not loss if you want to break the habit of using filler words while you are speaking. Here are four effective ways for those who want to stop saying filler words while they are either presenting or giving a speech. 

1. Making Eye Contact. 

Building an intimate rapport with the public by making eye contact is an excellent way of minimizing the use of filler words. When you are looking directly to a person while you are talking to him or her, you will find it awkward to say “um” or “so”. In addition, this method is also applicable when you are giving a speech to the public. Make an eye contact with everyone in the room instead of staring at the blank wall or the window. 

2. Record Yourself Speaking.

The first step to solve any problem is by admitting that you are having a problem! If you are unsure whether you are using filler words excessively while you are giving a speech, the best way to find it out is by recording your speech. It can be a painful process to listen to your own voice and acknowledge yourself committing mistakes that you do not even realise you are doing them. Study yourself well and avoid using them in the future.

3. Speak In Phrases.

As Benjamin Franklin supposedly once said, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail”. This is clearly visible when you do not plan and organise your ideas before you speak. Your spiel will then be filled with numerous filler words. In order to speak more fluently, you are advised to chunk your sentences and leave small gaps of pauses in between them to think. By creating a rhythm and maintain it, you will find yourself using filler words less than necessary.

4. Use Pre-planned Transitions.

Most people use “um”, “so”, “like” and other filler words because they are trying to tell the audience that their speeches are yet to be done and they are gathering their thoughts. Instead of blabbering “um”, it is better to prepare several transitional phrases such as “the next point I’d like to make is”, “now let’s consider” and the likes. Initially, you may feel uncomfortable when you utter these phrases. With much practice, you will eventually adapt yourself to this habit and find yourself using less filler words.